SINDANGAN
Sindangan —the Fish Capital of Zamboanga Del Norte
Sindangan, a pioneering municipality in Zamboanga del Norte, has a rich history marked by strong leadership and community spirit. Once an isolated barrio, it now thrives as the leading revenue-generating municipality in the province. Join us as we delve into the tale of how Sindangan grew and flourished through
dedication and perseverance.
There are two prevailing versions as to how Sindangan got its name. First story has it that a native fisherman carrying a basketful of fish was asked by a Guardia Civil, "Que es el nombre de este lugar, Amigo?" The fisherman, who did not understand Spanish replied, "Indangan," thinking he was being asked as to the kind of fish that he caught. The Spaniard, on the other hand, heard it as "Sindangan" so he revealed the same to the other Spaniards. Since then, the place was called Sindangan.
The second version has it that a group of Spaniards got attracted to some blooming plants in the fields so they asked a group of Visayan farmers nearby whether or not there were pests attacking the said plants. With a little knowledge of the language, the farmers replied "Sin" meaning no and "Dangan" meaning no pests. When combined, they form the word, "Sindangan" meaning a place with no pests.
The municipality was once an isolated barangay of Katipunan not connected by road, the municipality of Sindangan began its corporate existence on December 23, 1936 by virtue of Executive No. 77 which was signed by the President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines, Manuel L. Quezon.
Early settlers of the municipality belong to the Subanen tribe. Originally, they settled along the banks of Sindangan Bay.
Just a mile across the river towards the north, an army camp was established which opened opportunities for many people. This resulted to the migration of farmers from Visayas and Luzon, and this also prompted the natives to move further into the hills and mountains leaving the lowlands to the more civilized farmers from the north.
Since gaining corporate entity, administrators of the municipality initiated development which made Sindangan what it is today. This is attributed to the hard work and dedication of the 13 local chief executives who administered the affairs of Sindangan in close coordination with its constituents.
Sindangan —the Fish Capital of Zamboanga Del Norte
Sindangan offers a variety of programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Sindangan, focusing on education, health, and infrastructure.
Sindangan is committed to preserving its rich cultural heritage through various initiatives, events, and educational programs.
Discover the beauty of Sindangan through organized tours and community events that showcase local attractions.
The people engages in activities aimed at protecting the natural resources and promoting sustainability in the municipality.
Safety programs ensuring the well-being of citizens and the efficient response to emergencies and catastrophies.
Residents are encouraged to participate in local governance and community-building activities.
Your participation can help shape a better future for Sindangan.
The natives who settled along the banks of Sindangan Bay are the Subanen people, an indigenous group from the Zamboanga Peninsula. The name "Subanen" comes from the word "suba," meaning river, as they traditionally lived along riverbanks. Their traditional homeland is the Zamboanga Peninsula of Mindanao in the Philippines, and while they have historically lived near rivers, some groups now also reside in the mountains.